There’s always that one “what if” moment in a footballer’s career.
For Dutch legend Edgar Davids, it was a nearly-done deal that could’ve landed him at Manchester United—right under the wing of Sir Alex Ferguson.
And while it never came to be, the memory of that pivotal moment still sticks with him.
A Career Full of Giants—but Almost a Red Devil
Davids has had a career most footballers can only dream of.
From Ajax to AC Milan, Juventus to Barcelona, Spurs and Inter Milan—his resume reads like a tour of European football’s elite.
And let’s not forget his iconic look on the pitch: dreadlocks flying, protective goggles on, and pure energy in midfield.
But in 1996, right after Ajax’s Champions League triumph, the then-23-year-old had another major option: Manchester United.
It turns out, talks were already happening with none other than Sir Alex Ferguson.
A Chat with Fergie That Stuck with Him
Looking back during an interview with MUTV, Davids shared just how close things came to happening—and how surreal it was speaking to one of the greatest managers of all time.
“I got to talk to Sir Alex, and it was one of the most incredible conversations I ever had,” he said.
“The way he spoke, his personality—it was just on another level.”
Still, despite the tempting offer, Davids already had his sights set elsewhere. “I’d already made up my mind to go to Milan.
That was the dream for me at the time.”
Why Paul Ince Made United Irresistible
One of the main reasons Davids had even considered United in the first place was a player he looked up to—Paul Ince.
“I always watched Manchester United because of Ince.
He was unbelievable in midfield,” Davids said.
He even recalled a memorable showdown when Ince played for Inter Milan and Davids was at AC Milan: “It was such a physical battle.
Ince versus Marcel Desailly in midfield—two absolute beasts going at it.”
No Regrets, Just Respect
Even though the move didn’t happen, Davids carries no bitterness.
In fact, he has a deep admiration for what United were building at the time.
“I played against some amazing players there, and it was clear something special was happening with the young talents.”
Ultimately, though, the choice came down to a simple truth: “Italy was where I wanted to be.
Back then, the best footballers were in Serie A—just like the Premier League now.”
A Different Path, But Still a Legend
So while Edgar Davids never did wear the Manchester United shirt, his path through Europe still left a legendary mark.
And as he looks back, the story of the almost-move to Old Trafford adds just one more fascinating chapter to his already remarkable football journey.